The Challenge
A critical river flow control facility in San Antonio operated with three electric actuators that had served reliably for nearly 25 years. However, these aging units were destroyed in a short circuit caused by flooding. The facility controls gate systems that regulate water flow in the river—a mission-critical application requiring absolute reliability. Any failure could compromise flood control operations and public safety. The client needed a proven, waterproof solution capable of withstanding extreme conditions.
- 25-year-old actuators destroyed by flood-induced short circuit
- Critical infrastructure controlling river flow gates
- High risk of future flooding in the region
- Zero tolerance for equipment failure in emergency conditions
- Required exact replacement to fit existing gate infrastructure
Our Solution
WaterWorks, DC Export's hydraulic control division, partnered with Flowinn to provide state-of-the-art electric actuators specifically engineered for harsh water environments. Flowinn's advanced technology combines IP68 waterproof protection, IoT remote monitoring capabilities, and intelligent control systems (EMT/EMD series) with full customization to ensure exact replacement compatibility. The installation was completed on May 16, 2024, with complete confidence in the equipment's ability to withstand extreme conditions.
- Installed 3 Flowinn electric actuators with IP68 waterproof rating
- Full customization to match exact specifications of 25-year-old units
- IoT-enabled remote monitoring and diagnostics
- Intelligent EMT/EMD control systems for precise operation
- Advanced sealing technology for complete submersion protection
- Engineered for critical infrastructure applications
The Ultimate Stress Test: July 4th Flood
Less than 50 days after installation, on July 4, 2024, San Antonio experienced severe flooding—the ultimate real-world stress test for the new Flowinn actuators. The equipment was completely submerged under approximately 5 meters (16 feet) of water for more than 6 hours. When the floodwaters receded, all three actuators remained fully operational with zero failures. This extraordinary performance validated Flowinn's IP68 waterproof protection and demonstrated the reliability of DC Export's WaterWorks solutions for mission-critical water infrastructure.
- Survived complete submersion under 5 meters of water for 6+ hours
- Zero equipment failures during or after extreme flood event
- IP68 waterproof protection proven in real-world emergency conditions
- Continued reliable operation of critical river control gates
- IoT monitoring provided real-time status throughout the event
- 100% operational reliability maintained after stress test
- Validated Flowinn's advanced sealing and protection technology
Products Used
SKU: WW-FLOWINN-EMT
Flowinn EMT Series Electric Actuator - Custom Configuration
Electric Actuators